Truck Accident

A commercial truck with cargo can weigh over 80,000 pounds. The weight of a passenger vehicle on average is more than 20 times less than that. The disproportion makes it easy to see why so many collisions involving a truck trailer and a passenger vehicle result in very serious, often fatal injuries.

Statistics show that an estimated 12 percent of fatalities from traffic accidents in the United States are linked to large truck accidents, despite the fact that large trucks only comprising less than 5 percent of vehicles on the road. Individuals riding in passenger vehicles sustain the most serious injuries in a truck collision. In Texas, statistics show that thousands of people are injured or killed in a truck accident each year.

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Causes of Texas Truck Accidents

Accidents involving 18-wheelers or commercial trucks can be caused by a number of things. Sadly, many are attributed to negligence or preventable mistakes. Issues such as fatigue, and driving distractions are among the most common factors that lead to a significant percentage of preventable trucking accidents each year.

When big truck drivers drive while fatigued or allow their focus to be taken off of the road while making their commute, they not only put themselves at risk, but also present a threat to others who come across their path. According to information from the National Transportation Safety Board, in 40 percent of commercial vehicle wrecks truck driver fatigue was a factor. The numbers may correlate with the percentage of truck drivers who are persuaded to drive excessive hours to meet tight delivery deadlines without ensuring they obtain sufficient rest.

In addition to distracted driving and fatigue, inadequate training and a lack of vehicle maintenance are also factors that lead to a number of truck accidents each year. Truck drivers or trucking companies are typically responsible for accidents linked to these factors and may find themselves not only subjected to civil action by injured victims, but the focus of scrutiny by regulatory authorities in charge of overseeing such matters. Truck drivers and trucking companies are required to adhere to certain safety standards when operating or authorizing the operation of commercial vehicles.

Dealing with the Aftermath of Truck Accidents Today

Dealing with the aftermath of truck accidents can be extremely challenging for injured victims and their loved ones. With very serious injuries often being the result of these accidents, many victims are forced to undergo intense treatment and rehabilitation for their physical recovery. A number of injuries sustained are permanent or long-term. The financial burden of obtaining needed medical care in addition to accommodating other unanticipated lifestyle needs can be overwhelming. However, there are legal options for seeking compensation in these cases so victims are not required to meet these challenges alone.

Legal Options for Truck Accident Victims

Individuals who have been involved in truck accidents have options for pursuing legal compensation from those who may be responsible for what they have endured. A truck accident lawyer can help one assess these options and choose the most viable path for moving forward.

Whether one’s accident injury has been caused by truck driver error, truck maintenance issues, or other factors that may be classified as negligence on the part of truck 18 wheeler drivers or companies, they may be eligible to pursue a claim for damages. Compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages may be awarded in one’s case.

If you have been injured in a truck accident, or have lost a loved one due to a fatal truck accident you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation for damages. The truck accidents lawyers of the Witherite Law Group firm are available for those seeking a Houston truck accident lawyer, Dallas truck accident lawyer, Fort Worth truck accident lawyer, or truck accidents lawyer in the state of Georgia. Injured truck accident victims who wish to find a lawyer for their case can contact the firm for a free case evaluation today.